For those over 40 years of age (including this author), a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found higher levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in urine are associated with obesity, abdominal fat and insulin resistance. The study looked at 3,390 Chinese adults over the age of 40, and concluded that BPA was positively associated with generalized obesity, abdominal obesity, and insulin resistance in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults.

The study is consistent with other epidemiological studies which have shown links between BPA and metabolic disorders. Because virtually all American adults have BPA in their bodies, this study suggests that BPA may pose a significant health risk.

BPA is used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic, so food and drink stored in polycarbonate plastic can result in exposure (think of those 5 gallon water bottles). BPA is also used in the manufacture of epoxy resin linings for virtually all canned food and drink in the US – so to avoid BPA, skip canned foods. Think fresh, frozen, dried or jarred in glass over canned. At least one study confirmed that you can reduce BPA dramatically by eliminating canned foods. BPA is also used in the manufacture of certain thermal receipts, and can be absorbed through the skin.